Military
Members of the military face many unique challenges as a result of their service to our community and nation. It is our goal to make as many resources available as possible to reduce the burden those challenges pose.
Extended Payment Dates
Under Ohio law, active duty members of the Armed Forces are eligible for an extended payment period for real estate and manufactured home taxes. Service members in the National Guard and reserve components of the Armed Forces are also eligible if they have been called to active duty under Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Noble Eagle, the Governor’s directive of September 28, 2001, or a successor to that directive.
To apply for extended payment, the service member or that member’s spouse or dependent parent must file this form with our office, and enter into an installment payment plan no later than the last day of the sixth month following the termination of active duty.
Proof of eligibility must be provided with the application, and can include a copy of a military order or other similar documentation. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 330-297-3586.
Veteran's Homestead Exemption - Additional Credit
Veterans 65 years of age or older who qualify for the Homestead Exemption and have a disability that is 100% service-related are eligible for an additional tax credit of $25,000. With the existing $25,000 Homestead Exemption, disabled veterans may be eligible for a total exemption of up to $50,000 off the value of their homes for local property taxes.
For more information, contact the Auditor’s office at 330-297-3571.
Portage County Veterans Service Commission
The Veterans Service Commission is Portage County’s connection point to financial services for veterans. Specifically, the Commission’s mission is to assist veterans and their families in their interactions with the Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”), and to provide direct financial support to veterans who qualify.
The office offers complete “start to finish” case management as it pertains to filing a claim for benefits with the VA, including assistance with completing VA forms, interpreting VA correspondence, and preparing evidence. After the VA issues a decision, the office also assists in interpreting the decision, and preparing appeals where necessary.
Direct financial assistance is available for Portage County veterans on a short-term basis. This support can help smooth rough financial stretches, and acts as a “bridge” to longer-term solutions from the VA.
For more information, please visit the Portage County Veterans Service Commission webpage, or call 330-297-3545.
Other Resources
Too many service members and veterans face financial difficulties after they return home. The resources below are intended to help current and former members of the Armed Forces protect their finances and plan for the future they have helped secure.
Department of Job and Family Services – Veterans Workforce Services
Connects veterans to jobs, education, and benefits through the State of Ohio.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Navigating the Military Financial Lifecycle
Provides service members and their families with helpful finance guides. Lists guides for personal savings and finding money for continuing education.
Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration
Offers assistance with mortgage delinquency, life insurance, job counseling, and more.
Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255